DECISION TO RETIRE.

Manawatu Standard, Volume LX, Issue 168, 15 June 1940, Page 7

DECISION TO RETIRE.

PREVENTING CITY’S RUIN. LONDON, June 14. A Tours communique says: ‘‘The enemy push on two sides of P an ® I s still further accentuated. Due to tins -advance the troops protecting Pans have been withdrawn from the city in accordance with orders.. . “In renouncing the direct dctence ot the capital, which is now an open citv the French High Command wished'to save it from the devastation that would have resulted from such defence. It considered no worthwhile strategic result justified the sacrifice. ot, Paris The enemy armies on . the great Champagne front are progressing in fighting their way south.” - The day communique stated that tne French forces have withdrawn from It is announced from 1 ours that the War Office spokesman said late last night that the French line from the sea to the northern end of the Magi not Line remained coherent and unbroken. He added that recently-arrived American bombers had proved most effective, but if they were to influence the final issue there must* be many more. The Press Association was informed in London, shortly after , 7 a.m. GMT., that, while telephone communications with Paris . was not closed, there was definite delay,, and no bookings were being accepted; This morning’s French communique says that on both sides of Paris the enemy push is increasing. 'Because of this advance the French troops covering Paris retreated in accordance with orders received. On the vast Champagne front the enemy is continuing his progress southward. This fight of movement continues with the greatest orderliness. The French have beeii .greatly heartened by the renewed pledge given by the British Prime Minister ..that Britain would give the utmost help to France in her power. For several days British reinforcements have beeen goin" to France to'join the fighting.